Book Club: The Racketeer and Star Craving Mad

Hello Starts at Sixty Bookies,

It’s very interesting hearing the differing insights arising from a number of people reading the same book. It certainly opens great discussions. No doubt this will continue when we discuss two very different books chosen from our reader’s poll. Here they are:

The Racketeer, by John Grisham

Bookclub Leader – Karen O’Brien Hall

Discussion date – November 13, 2013

Publishers Notes:

“Given the importance of what they do, and the controversies that often surround them, and the violent people they sometimes confront, it is remarkable that in the history of the USA only four active federal judges have been murdered. Judge Raymond Fawcett just became number five. His body was found in the small basement of a lakeside cabin he had built himself and frequently used on weekends. When he did not show up for a trial on Monday morning, his law clerks panicked, called the FBI, and in due course the agents found the crime scene. There was no forced entry, no struggle, just two dead bodies – Judge Fawcett and his young secretary. I did not know Judge Fawcett, but I know who killed him, and why. I am a lawyer, and I am in prison. It’s a long story.”

Star craving Mad, by Fred Watson

Bookclub Leader – Vivienne Beddoe

Discussion date – November 27, 2013 

Publishers Notes:

“Fred Watson knows all about the madness that drives people to understand the Universe and unlock its secrets. Now you can join Australia’s best-known astronomer on a unique tour to unravel the mysteries of space and time. Take in primitive observatories in ancient Peru and the world’s largest atom-smasher in modern-day Switzerland. See Pluto demoted from planetary status. Go behind headlines to find the truth about the Transit of Venus and the Higgs Boson. Meet some of science’s most colourful characters. In this light-hearted, informative and engaging book, Fred travels to some of those far-flung destinations as he weaves the epic story of humankind’s growing understanding of the Universe. It’s a grand adventure and the Professor is a witty, funny and knowledgeable companion. Come along on a journey that is sure to take you out of this world.”

Looking forward to much lively discussion; happy reading, Vivienne & Karen